Framing component tie-down device and method

ABSTRACT

The present invention is a device and a method for connecting a first framing component to a second framing component. In the preferred embodiment the device forms a U-shaped channel which receives the edge of the first framing component when the device is pre-attached to the first framing component. The device includes one or more connector plates for connecting the device to the first framing component and one or more deployable connector flaps for connecting the device to the second framing component. Optionally, the device includes one or more anchor straps for increasing the strength of the connection between the first and the second framing components. Optionally, the device includes a tie-down means such as a press out loop in the connector plates, to facilitate making a tie-down connection between the first and the second framing components.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The field of this invention is devices for facilitating the construction of frames for frame buildings and other frame structures, and more specifically, devices for connecting framing components together.

2. Scope and Meaning of Certain Terms

The following definitions are provided to set forth the intended scope and meaning of the terms used in this disclosure and in the claims. Examples used in the definitions are intended to illustrate and clarify definitions, and not to limit the definition or the scope of the term. The terms defined here include plural forms, singular forms, and grammatical congeners and alternatives.

“Framing component” refers to the structural elements that are interconnected to produce a frame for a frame structure. Typically framing components are understood to be elongated pieces of wood or metal having a rectangular cross-section, such as rafters, studs, and joists; however, the term is not limited here to any particular material or cross-sectional profile. Compound components, such as trusses and top-plate/supporting member combinations, are also included in the definition.

The “top” of a framing component is understood herein to refer to the upper-most surface or element of the component, or what will be the upper-most surface or element of the component, when the component assumes its final position in the frame. Similarly, the “bottom” of a framing component is understood to refer to the lower-most surface or element of the component, or what will be the lower-most surface or element of the component, when the component assumes its final position in the frame.

The term “hinge-edge” refers to an edge connecting two elements of the device of the invention wherein the edge has sufficient flexibility to allow the two elements to move with respect to each other.

“Pre-attach” refers to the act or step of attaching the device of the invention to a first framing component at any time prior to the point at which the first framing component is placed in its final position with respect to a second framing component. The term “pre-attach” incorporates a presumed structural limitation that the deployable elements of the pre-attached invention are in their non-deployed configurations, as disclosed below.

The term “first framing component” refers to that framing component to which the invention is pre-attached. The term “second framing component” refers to that framing component to which the first framing component is to be connected by means of the invention.

A “connector plate” is that element of the invention by which the invention is attached to the first framing component. A “connector flap” is distinguished from a connector plate in that a connector flap is deployable with respect to the connector plate and functions to connect the device to the second framing component. The terms “connector plate” and “connector flap” are intended to be distinguished on the basis of their functions and not their structure.

The term “deployable” means that the relevant element is convertible from a non-deployed configuration to a deployed configuration. With respect to a connector flap, a non-deployed configuration is one in which the connector flap is substantially co-planar with its respective connector plate, and in which the free edges of the connector flap are bounded by the connector plate, and in which the connector flap lies substantially flush against a surface of the first framing component when the device is pre-attached to the first framing component. The deployed configuration of a connector flap is one in which the connector flap is oriented with respect to its respective connector plate at a deployment angle that permits the connector flap to be positioned substantially flush against a surface of the second framing component when the first and second framing components are connected, the deployment angle between the connector plate and the deployed connector flap being determined by the angle at which the first and second framing components are joined.

With respect to anchor straps, “deployable” means that the anchor strap is convertible from a non-deployed configuration to a deployed configuration. The non-deployed configuration is one in which the anchor strap is substantially co-planar with the bottom web and lies substantially flush against a surface of the first framing component when the device is pre-attached to the first framing component. The deployed configuration of an anchor strap is when the anchor strap is oriented with respect to the bottom web at a deployment angle that permits the anchor strap to be positioned substantially flush against a surface of the second framing component when the first and second framing components are connected, the deployment angle between the anchor strap and bottom web being determined by the angle at which the first and second framing components are joined.

“Tie-down,” when used as a verb, refers to the common framing technique of connecting one framing component, generally a spanning member, to another framing component, generally a supporting member, in a way that counteracts forces tending to separate the framing components. When used as a noun or adjective, “tie-down” is used herein to refer to devices such as straps, webs, anchors, and specialized bracing that are employed to tie-down a framing component. “Tie-down strap” is used as a general term for elongate, flexible devices used to tie-down a first framing component to a second framing component or to some other fixed object.

The term “over-the-top” refers to a tie-down technique in which a strap or other flexible tie-down device is passed over the top of the framing component to be tied down and the ends of the tie-down device are secured in a manner that prevents the framing component from being lifted from its supporting component. “Over-strap” is a tie down strap used to effectuate an over-the-top tie-down.

PROBLEMS ADDRESSED BY THE PRESENT INVENTION

It is generally desirable in the art of frame construction to minimize the number of steps that must be taken at the construction site and at the time the frame is assembled. One approach to realizing this goal is to pre-assemble many of the framing components in a factory, transport the pre-assembled components to the construction site, and then interconnect the pre-assembled components to produce the frame. This approach is particularly desirable with respect to roofing components because pre-assembly of such components reduces the amount of time that workers must spend off the ground.

The process of interconnecting the pre-assembled framing components on the job site is greatly facilitated by employing connecting devices pre-attached to one of the framing components. Such devices can be pre-attached either at the factory or on site while the component is on the ground.

However, many prior art framing component connecting devices comprise flaps, wings, bands, and similar elements that protrude when the devices are pre-attached to the first framing components. Such protruding elements present difficulties and hazards when the framing components are being handled, stored, or transported.

A second problem encountered in interconnecting framing components is that the components must be properly aligned with respect to each other in all three planes. In the typical box-type frame this means that the components must be square in two dimensions and plumb in the third. However, ensuring that the components are plumb and square, and that they remain that way during the process of connecting them, can be problematic, particularly when traditional toe-nailing is the method of connecting. That is because the hammer-blows used to produce a toe-nail joint causes one component to slip on the surface of the other, making it difficult to maintain precise bearing points.

A third problem commonly encountered when interconnecting framing components is that toe-nailing frequently results in splitting the wooden components. Such splitting not only weakens the connection between the two components but it also contributes to instability of the frame, particularly when the components are a spanning member and its support.

A fourth problem is that the strength of the traditional connection between a spanning member and its supporting component is often insufficient to counteract uplift and shear forces produced by high winds. Uplift and shear forces are particularly troublesome with respect to roofing elements such as trusses and rafters. When winds lift a roof off of its supporting members, not only does the structure suffer extensive damage or complete destruction but the flying debris that results from the disintegrating roof causes secondary damage to other structures and becomes a danger to people. Obtaining strong tie-down connections between spanning components and their supporting members has assumed an even greater priority in the field since the Hurricane Katrina disaster of 2005 because subsequent changes in the building codes of many localities require enhanced tie-down measures.

Yet a fifth problem in the field of framing is that there is a wide variety of design parameters that determine the geometry of the joints between two framing components. Prior art joining devices made of sheet metal and widely used in the industry often cannot accommodate unusual pitches, angles, depths, and orientations of framing components.

RELATED ART

My prior patents and [ ] for [ ] pre-attachable framing component connecting and bracing devices disclose solutions to many of the foregoing problems. In addition, the problem of overcoming uplift and shear forces is resolved by a number of patents for anchor straps and tie-downs U.S. Pat. No. 5,561,949 to Knoth and U.S. Pat. No. 4,571,114 to Rionda et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 6,219,975 to Olden are examples of simple straps used to hold a truss to a top plate and/or stud, and thereby resist potentially destructive uplift and shear forces. However, pre-attachable devices are not well known in the art.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,653,079 to Loeffler et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 5,377,472 to Terenzoni disclose framing connectors that can be attached to one framing component prior to bringing the components into their final positions. Although some of the elements and capabilities of these devices have much in common with elements and capabilites of the present device, these prior art devices exemplify many of the problems the present invention overcomes. Foremost is the problem that neither of these devices have deployable attachment elements, which means that if the prior art devices are “pre-attached” to a framing component, various flaps, wings, and/or tabs protrude from the framing component. These protruding elements make storing and handling the framing component difficult and, in some cases, dangerous.

This existing art, including my own prior inventions, predates the lessons learned form Hurricane Katrina and the resulting changes in building codes; consequently, many such prior art devices fail to provide sufficiently strong tie-down connections to meet current building codes in hurricane-prone areas. While some currently available devices do provide sufficient strength, they are not capable of being pre-attached in a safe and convenient manner. Consequently, an urgent need exists for framing connector devices that are both safely and conveniently pre-attachable and yet provide enhanced tie-down strength.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Brief Summary of the Invention

The present invention is a device used to connect framing components to one another. In the preferred embodiment the device has a rectangular bottom web, which has two opposing edges and two opposing ends. Each bottom web edge has a connector plate depending from it approximately orthogonally with respect to the plane of the bottom web, whereby the bottom web and the two connector plates form a U-shaped channel. The width of the bottom web, and, hence, the width of the channel, is chosen so that the channel receives an edge of the first framing component snugly. The device is pre-attached to the first framing component by inserting an edge of the first framing component into the U-shaped channel at a predetermined position chosen to coincide with the bearing point or design connection point of the first and second framing components. Once the device is positioned on the edge of the first framing component, attachment of the device to the first framing component can be easily accomplished by driving nails through the bottom web and the connector plates into the framing component, either directly through the device or by using nailing holes provided for that purpose. Optional attachment means are disclosed.

Each connector plate has a connector flap cut into it such that one edge of the connector flap forms a hinge-edge with the respective edge of the bottom web and the remaining edge or edges of the connector flap are free. In a non-deployed configuration, the connector flap is essentially co-planar with the connector plate from which it is cut, and the free edge or edges are bound by the connector plate. Thus, when the device is pre-attached, both the connector plate and the connector flap lie flush against the surface of the first framing component so that nothing protrudes to complicate handling, transport, or storage of the framing component. The first framing component can therefore be stored, handled, transported, and lifted into position with the device pre-attached but without the device being in the way.

Once the first framing component is in its final position and properly oriented with respect to the second framing component, each connector flap is deployed by urging it outward, using the fixed edge, or “hinge-edge,” as a hinge. The connector flap may be oriented at any angle from the connector plate according to design criteria, but the most common joints require the connector flap to be oriented either about 90 degrees or about 180 degrees with respect to the plane of the connector plate; however, any design angle can be accommodated by my invention. The final angle of the connector flap with respect to the connector plate will be determined by the geometry of the joint that is being produced. Whatever the angle, once fully deployed, the connector flap lies flat against a surface of the second framing component so that the connector flap can be attached to the second framing component by nails, screws, or some other suitable and equivalent attachment means. The first framing component is thereby securely connected to the second framing component.

When the connector flaps are deployed a full 180 degrees with respect to their respective connector plates, the device is particularly useful in connecting two framing components edge to edge, such as a piggy-back truss connected to a main truss.

The device can optionally be provided with one or more press-out loops in the connector plates to accommodate a tie-down strap such that one end of the strap can be easily passed between the connector plate and the surface of the first framing component, and then secured. The other end of the tie-down strap is passed over the top of the upper framing component, through a similar press-out loop on the other side of the component, and secured there. My invention thus greatly simplifies the technique of making strong and taut over-the-top tie-down connections. In fact, the tie down strap can be put in its final position and pulled taut while the truss or other upper component is being produced in the factory because only the component with the device pre-attached to it are required in order to attach the tie-down strap. Once the upper component is put into its final position, the connector flaps are deployed and attached to the lower component in order to effectuate the tie-down.

The device can also optionally include one or more deployable anchor straps depending from an end or ends of the bottom web by means of a hinge-edge. In the non-deployed configuration that anchor strap lies substantially co-planar with the bottom web. When the device is pre-attached to a framing component, the anchor is substantially flush against a surface of the component. When in the deployed configuration, the anchor web is urged out of its co-planar relationship with the bottom web and lies flush against the surface of the second framing component to which the anchor strap is attached.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings identical reference numbers are employed to identify identical elements and structures. The sizes and relative positions of the elements and structures in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, thickness is generally not drawn to scale and is generally enlarged to facilitate comprehension of the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a 180 degree deployment of the connector flaps.

FIG. 2 is an orthogonal view of a piggy-back truss assembly using the invention.

FIG. 3 a-3 c is a sequential sectional view showing edge-to-edge connection of a piggy-back truss to a main truss.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the invention incorporating an anchor strap and press-out loops.

FIG. 5 is a view of FIG. 4 showing a tie-down of a gabled truss to a top plate with an over-strap.

FIGS. 6 a and 6 b are orthogonal views from the side of the invention showing vertical and angled ends, respectively, of the press-out loops.

FIGS. 7 a and 7 b are orthogonal views from the end of the invention showing graduated integral teeth and piggy-back truss assembly.

FIG. 8 is a side elevation of a truss being attached to support members using anchor strap alignment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The inventive concepts and novel features of my invention are described herein with reference to specific embodiments, which embodiments represent the best mode currently known to me for making and using my invention. However, it is to be noted that the embodiments as described herein are not meant to limit the scope of my invention but rather are representative of many equivalent embodiments that incorporate the inventive concepts of my invention.

FIG. 1 shows one preferred embodiment of my invention. Bottom web 101 is generally rectangular, having two opposing side edges 102 a and 102 b and two opposing end edges. Only one bottom web end edge 103 is shown in the figure.

One of connector plates 104 a and 104 b depends from each side edge of the bottom plate; the lower edges of the connector plates being continuous with the respective side edges of the bottom web. In the preferred embodiment there are two connector plates, one depending substantially orthogonally from each of the opposing bottom web side edges, thereby producing a three-sided, U-shaped channel. Preferably the width of this channel is substantially equal to the thickness of the first framing component to which the device is to be pre-attached so that the device fits snuggly on the edge when the edge is inserted into the channel. Bottom web connector means and plate connector means such as nailing holes or spurs can optionally be included in the bottom web and connector plates, respectively, to facilitate attachment of the device to the first framing component. One such nailing hole is designated as 107 in FIG. 1.

Connector flaps 105 a, 105 b are cut into the connector plates. In the non-deployed configuration, each connector flap is substantially co-planar with its connector plate and the free edges of the connector flap are bounded by the connector plate. Both the non-deployed connector flap and its respective connector plate lie flush against the surface of the first framing component when the device is pre-attached thereto.

Each connector flap has one or more free edges and a hinge-edge 109 a, 109 b, which hinge-edge is continuous with the bottom web side edge. 102 a, 102 b FIG. 1 shows an embodiment in which the connector flaps have three free edges, the flap being square or rectangular. However, the connector flaps could be cut as arcs or as regular or irregular geometric figures having virtually any reasonable number of sides. Whilst the geometrical shape of the connector flap is not crucial, having a fixed hinge-edge is. The connector flaps optionally have notches 106 that are used to facilitate prying the flaps outward so they can be urged into their final position.

FIG. 1 shows connector flap 105 a deployed 180 degrees with respect to the plane of its connector plate 104 b; however, the final angle between the connector flap and its connector plate will be determined by design criteria and the manner in which the device is to be used.

Attachment means are provided for attaching the bottom web, connector plates, and connector flaps to their respective framing members. The bottom web and connector plates are attached to the first framing component, and the deployed connector flaps are connected to the second framing component. The type of attachment means used will depend upon the material of which the framing components are made and other design factors. Where the framing components are made of wood, the preferred embodiment of the invention employs nailing holes 107 through which nails are driven in order to attach the device to the framing components, as described below.

FIG. 2 shows how my device 200 can be used when the connector flaps are deployed a full 180 degrees with respect to their connector plates. In this example it is necessary to join piggy-back truss 209 to main truss 208. Such situations arise when a truss is too large to be conveniently or legally transported to the construction site. The truss is manufactured in two pieces, a lower main truss and an upper piggy-back truss. My invention can be pre-attached to either the main truss or piggy-back truss at the factory. In the example of FIG. 2, a plurality of the devices 200 are pre-attached to the piggy-back truss. At the work site, the main truss and piggy-back truss are juxtaposed into their proper positions and the connector flaps are deployed and attached. This can be done on the ground before the whole assembly is lifted onto the support members 210 a, 210 b. Alternatively, the main truss can be fixed into place on its support members and the piggy-back truss lifted up, properly aligned, and the connector flaps deployed 180 degrees, and attached.

FIGS. 3 a-3 c depict the process of using my invention to make an edge-to-edge connection as in connecting a piggy-back truss to a main truss. In FIG. 3 a, the device 300 has been pre-attached to the piggy-back truss 309. Once the two trusses are properly aligned, connector flaps 305 a and 305 b are deployed by urging them 180 degrees out of their co-planar relationship with the connector plate. In this deployed configuration the flaps form a channel for receiving the edge of main truss 308. Nails are then used to secure the connector flaps to the main truss as shown in FIG. 3 c, thus connecting the piggy-back truss to the main truss in an edge-to-edge fashion. By employing a number of my devices in this manner securing the piggy-back truss to the main truss, a very strong joint can be produced.

DETAILS, EMBELLISHMENTS AND VARIATIONS Anchor Straps

The utility of my device can be significantly enhanced by providing structural embellishments that allow it to be used as a tie-down device. Two such embellishments are indicated in FIG. 4, which shows the device as it would be oriented on a second framing component after the connector flaps 405 and anchor strap 412 have been deployed. The first framing component, to which the device would be pre-attached, is deleted from FIG. 4 for clarity. The figure shows a bottom web 401, from the side edges of which two connector plates 404 a, 404 b depend. Connector plates 405 a, 405 b are shown in their deployed configuration, lying flush against top plate 411.

Anchor strap 412 is provided for increasing the strength of the connection between the framing components and for resisting lifting forces. The anchor strap depends from one end of the bottom web by means of a hinge-edge 413. In the non-deployed configuration, shown by the dashed lines 412′, the anchor strap is essentially co-planar with the bottom web. Thus, it lies flush against the edge of the first framing component and out of the way during storage, handling, and transport of the first framing component. To deploy the anchor strap, it is simply urged away from the edge of the first framing component and forced flush against the face of the second framing component, which in the case of FIG. 4 is the top plate 411 and support member 410. The connector flaps 405 a, 405 b are deployed by urging them out of their co-planar relationship with the connector plates 404 a, 404 b until they are flush against the upper surface of the top plate.

It will also be appreciated that it is advantageous in some situations to have two anchor straps, one extending from each end of the bottom web in order to double the anchoring forces at each connection—for instance in coastal areas where hurricanes and high winds are particularly strong and prevalent.

As shown in FIG. 8, the anchor straps may also be used to precisely position the first framing component 803 on the second framing component, 801, 802. This is done by partially deploying the anchor strap 806, 807 prior to the time the first framing component is set into its final position. The partially deployed anchor strap is used as a sight to insure the first framing component is aligned properly at the bearing point on the second framing component simply by marking the bearing point on the second component and using the anchor strap to sight on the mark.

The partially deployed anchor strap also acts as a stop to prevent the first framing component from moving too far along its longitudinal axis as it is set down on the second framing component. As can be seen in the example shown in FIG. 8, as truss 803 is maneuvered into position on the support pieces 801, 802, the partially deployed anchor straps 806, 807 guide the truss into a proper lateral alignment and prevent the truss from drifting to the right or left.

Press-Out Loops.

A second embellishment shown in FIG. 4 promotes the use of the device as a tie-down device. Press-out loops 415 a, 415 b are provided by pressing out a section of the connector plates above the connector flaps during manufacture of the device. This results in an integral loop being formed in the connector plate, which integral loop is referred to herein as a “press-out loop.” These press-out loops define a space for accommodating a tie-down strap between the surface of the first framing component and the connector plate. The method of using the press-out loops to effectuate a tie-down is disclosed below.

Hinge-Edges

As disclosed herein, the connector flaps and anchor straps are deployable. This feature requires that they depend from a bottom web side edge, in the case of connector flaps, or a bottom web end edge, in the case of anchor straps, in a manner that allows them to be urged away from the first framing component when they are deployed. The structure that permits this motion is referred to as a “hinge-edge.” Such hinge-edges may be constructed by various means that achieve the objective of facilitating deployment of the deployable elements. For instance, a hinge-edge formed by slots or substantially co-linear holes along the bottom web edge achieves this objective. Such a hole is shown in FIG. 4, 416. Score-lines cut or pressed into the bottom web edge may also be used to form the hinges. If the metal or other material used to fabricate the device is sufficiently thin, the hinge may be formed simply by the process of bending the anchor strap and connector flaps relative to the bottom web.

Toe-Nailing Fenestration

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, once a connector flap has been deployed, the surface of the first framing component is exposed through the opening in the connector plate. By way of illustration, FIG. 5 shows the device of FIG. 4 with the first component, truss 516, in place. When connector flap 405 a is fully deployed so that it lies flush against top plate 411, a portion of the vertical surface of truss 516 is exposed by the opening in 404 b. It is thus possible to exploit this opening for toe-nailing the truss to the top plate. As shown in FIG. 4 a toe-nailing fenestration 414 is provided in bottom web 401 to accommodate toe-nailing by allowing a toe-nail to be driven through the surface of the truss and into the second framing component.

The device thus obviates problems caused by traditional toe-nailing in four ways: First, it limits the amount of toe-nailing required to interconnect the framing components. Second, the bottom web and connector plates encase the first framing component on three sides and this reduces splintering caused by toe-nailing. Third, it overcomes material weakening and vertical instability caused by splintering. Fourth, because the first framing component is firmly attached to the second framing component prior to toe-nailing, the first framing component cannot slip along the surface of the second framing component during toe-nailing through the fenestration

Connecting Means

Various connecting means may be employed for connecting the invention to the first and second framing components, including hammered nails, hammered staples, pneumatically driven nails, pneumatically driven staples, bolts, and screws. Nailing holes, as for instance 417 shown in FIG. 4, are provided in the surfaces of the connector plate, anchor strap, and connector flaps, as disclosed above. With respect to the connector plates, a pair of opposing nailing holes can be optionally provided with one of the one of the holes significantly larger than the other so that a long nail can be driven into the smaller hole, completely through the framing member and out of the larger hole in the opposing connector plate. Then the exposed end of the nail is bent or crimped. Opposing bolt-holes can be provided so that lag bolts or carriage bolts can be employed. Bolt-holes are particularly advantageous when working with framing components that are not amenable to nailing, such as metal framing components.

Integral protuberances such as integral nails and teeth can also be used as a connecting means, particularly with respect to the connector plates. Although integral protuberances are effective in connecting the anchor strap and connector flaps to the supporting component, such protuberances are problematic when the device is pre-attached to a framing component because the protuberances stick out from the surface of the device and framing component. This makes handling and storing the components difficult and dangerous due to the protruding teeth, integral nails, etc., and, consequently, defeats many of the advantages of the invention.

Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, one may appreciate the advantages of using integral teeth to connect the connecting plates to the first framing component. These figures show the device 700 being used to make an edge-to-edge connection of first framing component 709 to a second framing component 708. The device is formed by a bottom web 701, and two opposing connector plates 704 a, 704 b. Integral teeth 720 a-720 f are cut into connecting plates using, for instance, methods well known in the art of metal fabrication. Spurs or barbs can also be used effectively. Also, as shown in FIG. 7A, it is desirable that the integral teeth be of decreasing length from the outer edge of the connector plate to the bottom web edge. Having longer integral protuberances in the upper portion of the device produces enhanced gripping power when the device is pre-attached to the first framing component.

As disclosed above, it is generally desirable that two connector plates depend approximately orthogonally from the bottom web to produce a U-shaped channel for snugly receiving the edge of the first framing component. However, when using inwardly-extending protuberances integral to connector plates, as shown in FIG. 7A, it is desirable that the connector plates be splayed outwardly so that the device can be easily fit over the edge of the first framing component when the device is pre-attached thereto, in spite of the protuberances. In other words, this embodiment anticipates that angles “a” of FIG. 7A be greater than 90 degrees such that the distance between the longest opposing teeth 720 a and 720 b is greater than the thickness of the first framing component 709.

Once the device is seated on the edge of the first framing component as shown in FIG. 7B, the device is secured to the framing component by driving one or more nails 709 through a nailing hole in the bottom web and into the edge of the framing component. Then the connector plates are forced flush against the surface of the component, driving the integral protuberances into the first framing component. This can be done, for instance, a hammer blow, compression roller, or pneumatic press. At the time the joint is to be made, the connector flaps 705 a, 705 b are deployed as shown in FIG. 7B in order to receive the second framing component 708.

While the foregoing disclosure describes the invention as having the cross-sectional profile of a U-shaped channel with or without splayed sides for receiving the first framing component, in some circumstances it may be more advantageous for the device be L-shaped, comprising a bottom web from which depends only one connector plate and with its associated connector flap.

Preferred Dimensions and Materials

In most situations the length of the bottom web is not critical; however, when employing my invention to connect a spanning member to its supporting component, it is generally desirable that the length of the bottom web be equal to or less than the width of the supporting component. For instance, if the width of a top plate is 6 inches, it is most desirable that the bottom web of my device be 6 inches long, or less. When two anchor straps are used, it is essential that the length of the bottom web be substantially equal to the width of the supporting component so that both anchor strap hinges are positioned adjacent the edges of the top plate, thereby allowing the anchor straps to fully deploy.

The width of the device is generally more critical than its length. In order for the device to be unobtrusive while pre-attached to the first framing component, it is desirable to have the width of the bottom web be substantially equal to the thickness of the first framing component so that the device is held in place by frictional forces even without the use of inwardly extending protuberances. For instance, many framing components commonly used in frame construction have a thickness of 1.5 inches. If the width of the bottom web, and hence the channel, is also approximately 1.5 inches, frictional forces between the surfaces of the framing component and the connector plates will hold the device in place while it is being pre-attached permanently.

Without being limited to any particular material, the presently preferred embodiment of the device is manufactured from galvanized sheet metal of 18 or 20 gauge, or of comparable thickness. The device can be produced in large quantities using high-volume, mass production metal stamping techniques well known in the art of metal fabrication.

Method of Using the Device as a Tie-Down

The method of using my device with our without the optional press-out loops for tie-down can be easily comprehended by referring to FIG. 5, which shows the device of FIG. 4 as it appears when both the first framing component and the second framing component are in their final positions. The device is pre-attached to the edge of first framing component, truss 516, by being nailed to the lower edge of the truss at the design bearing point with respect to the second framing component, which is the combination of top-plate 411 and supporting member 410. The pre-attachment may be done, for instance, at the factory when the truss is manufactured, or it may be done on site prior to lifting the truss into place. The pre-attachment is effectuated most conveniently by driving nails through the nailing holes 404 provided in the bottom plate and connector plates. When inwardly protruding, integral protrusions are employed, the device can be efficiently pre-attached by means of standard compression, rolling, or pneumatic stamping devices.

Once the first framing component is set into its final position with respect to the second framing component, connector flap 405 b is urged out of the co-planar relationship with its connector plate 404 b. This action can be initiated by prying the connector flaps with a screwdriver inserted into the pry notches (See FIG. 1). Similarly, connector flap 405 a, which is not visible in FIG. 5, is urged free of it's non-deployed configuration. Having been freed from their non-deployed configurations, the connector flaps are urged into their deployed configurations flush against the upper surface of the top plate. In most instances this is accomplished by a sharp blow with a hammer. Anchor strap 412 is also urged into its deployed configuration, which is to say, flush against the vertical surface of the second framing component, as shown in FIG. 5. Then the connector flaps and anchor strap are attached to the second framing component. Again, this is most easily accomplished by nailing.

In most building designs, the connector flap is deployed at an angle of 90 degrees to its connector plate. However, many situations are anticipated in which this angle will be substantially more or less than 90 degrees. For instance, in the piggy-back truss assembly example above, the angle between the connector flap and its connector plate is 180 degrees. Whilst the invention is not constrained to any angle or any range of angles between the connector plate and the deployed connector flap, I have found that that in most applications, the deployment angle will be between from about 30 degrees to about 180 degrees. Nor is it a limitation of the invention that both connector flaps of a single device must assume the same final deployment angle. For example, applications of the invention are not uncommon in which one flap is deployed 90 degrees and the other flap is deployed 180 degrees. A major advantage of the invention is that it easily accommodates a wide range of design criteria.

Returning to the tie-down example shown in FIG. 5, once the connector flaps have been connected to the second framing component, the first and second framing components are sufficiently securely connected to one another to withstand most lifting forces. If additional resistance to lifting forces is required, an over-the-top tie down is effectuated by passing a first end 517 of flexible over-strap 518 downwards through the space between the surface of the first framing component and the connector plate, which space is formed by the press-out loop 415 b. After being passed through the space, the first over-strap end is bent upwards and secured, preferably by nailing it to the first framing component. This manner of securing the end of the over-strap produces a much stronger connection than simply nailing the end of the over-strap to the top-plate, as is commonly done with present devices. The free end of the over-strap is passed over the top of the first framing component and similarly passed through the space formed by the press-out loop on the opposite side of the truss (not visible in FIG. 5). The strap is tautened again and the second end is bent upwards and secured in the same manner the first end was secured.

It will be appreciated that the foregoing attachment of the device to the first framing component with the additional tie-down features can be performed at the time the device is pre-attached to the first component. The tie-down is then effectuated when the first component is attached to the second component by means of the connector flaps.

It will also be appreciated that the press-out loops not only provide means for securing the ends of the over-strap, they also provide anchor-points so that purchase can be obtained on the over-strap to tauten it and minimize slack before the second end is secured.

FIGS. 6A and 6B compare two types of press-out loops. In FIG. 6A, press-out loop 615 a has the upright edges of the press-out loop angled outward from the center of the device to form a trapezoidal profile. This accommodates a tie-down strap 618 a with a large off-vertical connection angle as opposed to the press-out loop 615 b in which the edges are square all around.

SUMMARY

From the foregoing description the novelty, utility, means of constructing, and means of using my invention will be readily apprehended. However, the foregoing description merely represents the best mode known to me as of the present date. It is to be understood that my invention is not limited to the embodiment disclosed above but encompasses any and all embodiments within the scope of the following claims. 

1. A connecting device for connecting a first framing component to a second framing component, said connecting device comprising: a. a bottom web having at least one side edge and at least one end edge; b. at least one connector plate, said connector plate depending from said side edge, said connector plate comprising a connector plate attachment means for attaching said first connector plate to the first framing component; and, c. at least one connector flap associated with said connector plate, wherein said connector flap is convertible from a non-deployed configuration to a deployed configuration, and wherein said connector flap comprises i) a hinge-edge continuous with said side edge from which said connector plate depends; ii) at least one free edge; and, iii) a connector flap attachment means for attaching said connector flap to the second framing component, wherein when said connector flap is in the non-deployed configuration, said connector flap is substantially co-planar with said connector plate and said free edge of said connector flap is bounded by said connector plate; and wherein when said connector flap is in the deployed configuration, said connector flap is oriented with respect to said connector plate at a deployment angle determined by the angle at which the first and second framing components are joined.
 2. The device of claim 1 wherein the number of connector plates is two and the number of bottom web side edges is two, and wherein each of said two connector plates depends from a different one of said two bottom web side edges, whereby said two connector plates and said bottom web form a three-sided channel for receiving an edge of the first framing component.
 3. The device of claim 2 wherein the number of said connector flaps is two, and wherein each of said two connector plates has one of said two connector flaps associated with it.
 4. The device of claim 1 wherein said connector plate further comprises a tie-down means for effectuating a tie-down of the first framing component to the second framing component.
 5. The device of claim 4 wherein said tie-down means comprises at least one press-out loop in said connector plate, wherein said press-out loop defines a space for accommodating a tie-down strap between said connector plate and the first framing component when the device is attached to the first framing component.
 6. The device of claim 1 further comprising at least one anchor strap, wherein said anchor strap depends from said bottom web end edge.
 7. The device of claim 1 wherein the number of said bottom web end edges is two, and wherein at least one anchor strap depends from each of said two bottom web end edges.
 8. A tie-down method for tying-down a first framing component to a second framing component, said method comprising the steps of: a) pre-attaching a connecting device to the first framing component, said connecting device having: i) a bottom web, wherein said bottom web has at least one side edge and at least one end edge; ii) at least one connector plate for pre-attaching the connecting device to the first framing component, wherein said connector plate depends from the side edge; iii) at least one connector flap for attaching the connecting device to the second framing component, wherein the connector flap is associated with the connector plate, and wherein the connector plate is capable of being converted from a non-deployed configuration to a deployed configuration, and wherein the connector flap is in its non-deployed configuration at the time the connecting device is pre-attached to the first framing component; and, iv) at least one press-out loop integral to the connector plate, wherein the press-out loop defines a space for accommodating a tie-down strap between the connector plate and the first framing component when the connector plate is attached to the first framing component; b) orienting the first framing component with respect to the second framing component; c) deploying the connector flap of Step a) so that it is flush against a surface of the second framing component when the first and second framing components are oriented, d) attaching the connector flap deployed at Step c) to the second framing component; e) passing a first end of a tie-down strap through the space defined by the press-out loop of the first connector plate and the first framing component; f) securing the first end of the tie-down strap of Step e); and, g) securing the second end of the tie-down strap of Step e).
 9. The tie-down method of claim 8 wherein Step f) comprises the steps of: f1) bending the first end of the tie-down strap of Step e) upwards; and, f2) securing the first end of the tie-down strap of Step f1) to the first framing component.
 10. The tie-down method of claim 9 wherein Step g) further comprises the steps of: g1) passing the second end of the tie-down strap of Step e) over the top of the first framing component; and, g2) passing the second end of the tie-down strap of Step e) through the space defined by a the press-out loop of a second connector plate and the first framing component, whereby an over-the-top tie-down is effectuated.
 11. The tie-down method of claim 10 wherein Step g) further comprises the steps of: g3) raising the second end of the tie-down strap upwards after it has been passed through the space defined by the second connector plate and the press-out loop at Step g2); and, g4) connecting the second end of the tie-down strap to the first framing component.
 12. The tie-down method of claim 8 further comprising the step of tautening the tie-down strap.
 13. The tie-down method of claim 8 wherein the connecting device of Step a) further comprises at least one anchor strap depending from the bottom web end edge, the anchor strap being capable of being converted from a non-deployed configuration to a deployed configuration, the anchor strap being in its non-deployed configuration at the time the connecting device is pre-attached to the first framing component.
 14. The tie-down method of claim 13 further comprising the step of fully deploying the anchor strap so that it is substantially flush against a surface of the second framing component when the first and second framing components are in their final position.
 15. The tie-down method of claim 14 wherein Step b) comprises the steps of: b1) placing a bearing point mark on the second framing component; b2) partially deploying at least one anchor strap of Step a); and, b3) sighting on the bearing point mark of Step b1) with the partially deployed anchor strap of Step b2) in order to align the first framing component to the bearing point mark on the second framing component.
 16. The tie-down method of claim 14 wherein Step b) comprises the steps of: b4) partially deploying at least one anchor strap of Step a); and, b5) using the partially deployed anchor strap of Step b4) as a stop to prevent longitudinal drift of the first framing component with respect to the second framing component.
 17. The tie-down method of claim 13 wherein Step f) comprises the steps of: f3) bending the first end of the tie-down strap upwards; and, f4) securing the first end of the tie-down strap to the first framing component.
 18. The tie-down method of claim 13 wherein Step g) further comprises the steps of: g5) passing the second end of the tie-down strap of Step f) over the top of the first framing component; and, g6) passing the second end of the tie-down strap of Step f) through a space defined by a the press-out loop of the connector plate of Step a) and the first framing componen
 19. The tie-down method of claim 18 wherein Step g) further comprises the steps of” g7) raising the second end of the tie-down strap of Step g5) upwards after it has been passed through the space defined by the press-out loop of the connector plate of Step a) and the first framing component; and, g8) connecting the second end of the tie down strap of Step g7) to the first framing component.
 20. The tie-down method of claim 13 further comprising the step of tautening the tie-down strap. 